According to Italian media reports, legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, as part of the Italy squad for this European Championship, believes his experience can help the team become “the stars of the Euros.”
Italy will face Albania in their first group match this Saturday, followed by matches against Spain and Croatia. As team manager under Coach Roberto Mancini, Buffon’s role is similar to that of Gaetano Viiali in the 2020 Euros – it’s his first time as a member of the backroom staff at a major international tournament.
In an interview with Vivo Azzurro TV, Buffon shared, “It’s an unusual feeling, one I haven’t experienced in a very long time. As the competition draws closer, the adrenaline starts to rise – I guess that’s a natural response after thirty years in professional football.”
Buffon was the starting goalkeeper when Italy lifted the World Cup in Germany in 2006. Returning to Germany with the national team, he aims to share his expertise with the current squad. He said, “I try to contribute to the team, drawing on my experiences as a player. I’m attempting to give the guys some extra support for the exciting moments or challenging periods. I hope they enjoy the ride and, looking back in the future, realize how fortunate they are to be part of these events. The Italian players are talented enough, and if they play to their potential, I believe the team can be protagonists in this Euro competition.”